Be drawn to the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park and the majestic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge with spectacular cliffs that glow in the changing light.
Nitmiluk National Park, just 30km north-east of Katherine, covers a vast area, including 13 impressive gorges carved from the ancient sandstone country which stretch for as far as the eye can see.
Explore the world-famous park and gorge country on foot, by canoe, boat or helicopter.
Accommodation is available within the National Park. Choose from camping, to chalets through to the upmarket Cicada Lodge. Nitmiluk National Park has something for everyone.
Things to see & do in Nitmiluk National Park
Travellers’ stories
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Information
Opening times
Open daily, 24 hours.
Facilities
- Barbeque
- Boating Facilities
- Cafe
- Caravan / Camper Trailer / Campervan Sites / Campsites
- Carpark
- Coach Parking
- Enquiry Desk
- Family Friendly
- Food and Refreshments
- Interpretive Centre
- Lookouts
- Picnic Area
- Public Toilet
- Restaurant
- Shop / Gift Shop
- Showers
- Swimming Pool
Activities
- Birdwatching
- Boating
- Camping
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- Swimming
- Walks
Accessibility
Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
Accreditation
- COVID Safe
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Map
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FAQs
Can Nitmiluk Gorge be done as a day trip?
It's possible to take a day trip from Darwin to Nitmiluk Gorge, however a longer stay is recommended. The Gorge is just over 30 minutes drive from Katherine, meaning a day trip from Katherine is certainly possible. If you have more time, stay a few nights to make sure you don't miss out on anything.
Do I need any passes or permits to visit Nitmiluk Gorge?
No passes or permits are required to visit Nitmiluk Gorge, except if you wish to use your own canoe. As always, check with local tourism providers – especially if you plan on camping or fishing.
How do I get around Nitmiluk National Park?
Nitmiluk National Park has a number of attractions, so driving or taking an organised tour are the best ways to see everything. All attractions are accessible with a regular vehicle, a 4WD is not necessary. There are well marked walking tracks in the park, ranging from one hour walks to the five-day Jatbula Trail. When exploring Nitmiluk Gorge you can jump on cruise boat or hire a canoe.
How do I get to Nitmiluk Gorge?
A number of tour operators include Nitmiluk Gorge in their itineraries, it's an easy drive from Darwin or Kakadu National Park. By road, Nitmiluk Gorge is a 4 hour drive south from Darwin on the Stuart Highway. You can take the weekly Ghan train from Adelaide or Alice Springs, or fly into Katherine with Air North. Nitmiluk Gorge is a 30 minute drive on a sealed, all-weather road from Katherine.
How far is Nitmiluk Gorge from Katherine?
Katherine is just 30 minutes' drive from Nitmiluk Gorge. Katherine has an array of excellent accommodation options that suit every budget.
What are the major attractions at Nitmiluk Gorge?
Whether you visit for a day or a week, there's plenty to see and do at Nitmiluk Gorge. Highlights include boat cruises down the gorge, unique tours with local Aboriginal guides, canoeing at the break of day, stunning Aboriginal rock art, and the luxurious accommodation at Cicada Lodge.
What should I bring with me to Nitmiluk Gorge?
Aside from bringing your imagination and ambition to see as much as you can, you should also bring sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, a first aid kit, plenty of water and comfortable walking shoes.
When is the best time to visit Nitmiluk Gorge?
You can visit Nitmiluk Gorge all year-round. The weather between May to October is warm and dry, making it the perfect time for long hikes, canoeing or exploring the region. November to April sees the arrival of the tropical rain, and when the water level rises, jet boats operate cruises on the gorge.
Where should I go next from Nitmiluk Gorge?
Up north there's Darwin, Kakadu National Park and Litchfield National Park. To the south you'll find the Red Centre, including Alice Springs and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
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